יְמִינִי

יְמִינִי

a Jeminite (collectively) or descendants of Jamin

Definition

The Hebrew word יְמִינִי (Yᵉmîynîy) is a patronymic noun meaning 'a descendant of Jamin' or, collectively, 'the Jaminites.' It refers specifically to the clan or family group tracing its lineage back to Jamin, who was a son of Simeon (Genesis 46:10). In its two biblical occurrences, it denotes this tribal subgroup within the larger tribe of Simeon. The term functions purely as an ethnic or genealogical identifier, with no other attested meanings in the biblical text.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only twice in the Old Testament, both times in genealogical or census contexts. In Numbers 26:12, it appears in the listing of Simeonite clans during the census in the wilderness. In 2 Samuel 20:1, the rebel Sheba is identified as 'Sheba the son of Bichri, a Benjamite,' but the Masoretic Text notes a variant reading 'a Jaminite' in the margin, suggesting a possible textual tradition linking him to the Simeonite clan instead. This limited usage underscores its role as a specific tribal designation.

Etymology

Derived patronymically from the proper name יָמִין (Yāmîn, H3226), meaning 'Jamin.' Jamin's own name comes from the root יָמִין (yāmîn), meaning 'right hand' or 'south,' but as a personal name, it lost that literal meaning. The suffix ־ִי (-î) indicates 'belonging to' or 'descended from,' thus יְמִינִי means 'of Jamin' or 'pertaining to Jamin.'

Semantic Range

In ancient Israelite society, identity was deeply tied to lineage and tribe. Being identified as a 'Jaminite' placed an individual within the social and military structure of the tribe of Simeon, one of the twelve tribes of Israel. This clan-based identity determined inheritance rights, territorial claims (as seen in the tribal allotments), and social obligations. Understanding such terms helps modern readers appreciate the importance of genealogy and tribal affiliation in the biblical narrative. בֶּן־יְמִינִי (Ben-yᵉmîynîy, H1145) — A synonymous patronymic phrase meaning 'son of a Jaminite' or 'Jaminite,' used in 1 Chronicles 4:34.

Word Details